Synthesis and characterization of an oligonucleotide containing the bifurcated nucleobase ω-adenylpropyl uracil

A novel bifurcated nucleoside that bears an adenine group trimethylene linked to the 5-position of uracil, 5-(omega-adenylpropyl)-2′-deoxyuridine, has been synthesized and incorporated into a DNA dodecamer. This nucleoside is designed to both intercalate and hydrogen bond when incorporated into an oligonucleotide helix. Initial results of its influence on helix properties are reported.